PSpice modeling of electronically ballasted compact fluorescent lamp systems

The author describes a new design approach of using PSpice to determine the compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) operating point and approximate lamp current crest factor, using an experimentally determined lamp characteristic curve. An optimized design can be achieved by evaluating line regulation, relative open circuit voltage, and relative lamp current crest factor. The use of PSpice software to estimate the CFL's behavior at nominal and elevated temperature is also described. Lamp current variation was evaluated with a matrix of base drive transformers, switching transistors, and ballasting inductors. The impact of important component characteristics, including magnetic saturation flux level, has also been considered. All simulation results are compared to actual experimental results on a voltage-sourced half bridge inverter ballasted CFL.<>